BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to cushion systems. More particularly, the present invention pertains to a customizable cushion system having interchangeable support members of varying properties.
Many pillows fail to provide sufficient support, resulting in poor sleep patterns that can significantly impact an individual's daily routine. Often, a pillow must be specifically selected to suit an individual's preferred stiffness and body type, in order to facilitate comfort and proper body alignment during sleep. Failure to select a pillow that maintains a desired body alignment can result in poor circulation and added stress to the body that can contribute to chronic aches and pains. While several existing pillows are designed to ensure a proper body alignment during sleep, such pillows are not customizable to a particular user's body type and preferences. Alternatively, some pillows may be adjustable, however, such adjustments may require a significant effort or fail to provide a desired comfort level. Additionally, typical pillow systems fail to provide airflow to the user, leading to discomfort as the face of the user becomes overheated. Similarly, other cushions, such as those used for seating, can fail to provide proper support, leading to discomfort, poor circulation, poor posture, or other issues over time. Therefore, a cushion system that can be easily and efficiently customized to provide a desired level of stiffness, comfort, and body alignment, whether for sleep, seating, or the like is needed.
In light of the devices disclosed in the known art, it is submitted that the present invention substantially diverges in design elements from the known art and consequently it is clear that there is a need in the art for an improvement to existing cushion systems. In this regard, the instant invention substantially fulfills these needs.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the known types of cushion systems now present in the known art, the present invention provides a customizable cushion system wherein the same can be utilized for providing convenience for the user when adjusting a cushion to suit the user's preferences.
The present system comprises a flexible outer casing having a closed rear end, a pair of closed lateral edges, and an open front end defining an interior volume therebetween. In some embodiments, a seam extends transversely across the flexible outer casing between the closed rear end and the open front end, defining a first compartment hingedly affixed to a second compartment about the seam. A plurality of support members are selectively insertable into the interior volume, wherein the plurality of support members comprise a substantially cylindrical structure. Upon insertion into the interior volume, the plurality of support members are in parallel alignment. A closure fastener is disposed on the open front end, wherein the closure fastener selectively closes the front end to enclose the interior volume. In some embodiments, a plurality of securement straps is affixed to each closed lateral edge, wherein the plurality of securement straps removably secure the flexible outer casing to a support structure.
In some embodiments, one or more support members of the plurality of support members comprise a longitudinal channel therethrough. In another embodiment, the longitudinal channel comprises a circular cross section. In other embodiments, the longitudinal channel comprises a cross-shaped cross section. In yet another embodiment, one or more support members of the plurality of support members comprise a central core and an outer portion, wherein the central core and the outer portion comprise materials of differing stiffness. In some embodiments, the central core comprises a material having a greater stiffness than the outer portion. In another embodiment, an exterior surface of one or more support members of the plurality of support members comprises a plurality of planar faces defining a polygonal cross section. In other embodiments, an exterior surface of one or more support members of the plurality of support members comprise a plurality of arcuate protrusions disposed equiangularly about a circumference of the one or more support members. In yet another embodiment, the flexible outer casing contours with the plurality of support members disposed within the interior volume, defining a plurality of recesses in an outer surface of the flexible outer casing, wherein each recess is disposed between adjacent support members. In some embodiments, one or more support members of the plurality of support members comprise a thermally conductive material configured to regulate a temperature of the support member in contact with a user. In another embodiment, an additional seam extends transversely between the open front end and the closed rear end of the flexible outer casing defining a third compartment having a third interior volume.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Although the characteristic features of this invention will be particularly pointed out in the claims, the invention itself and manner in which it may be made and used may be better understood after a review of the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings wherein like numeral annotations are provided throughout.
FIG. 1A shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the customizable cushion system.
FIG. 1B shows a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the customizable cushion system.
FIG. 2A shows an end view of a support member of an embodiment of the customizable cushion system.
FIG. 2B shows an end view of an alternate support member of an embodiment of the customizable cushion system.
FIG. 2C shows an end view of an alternate support member of an embodiment of the customizable cushion system.
FIG. 2D shows an end view of an alternate support member of an embodiment of the customizable cushion system.
FIG. 2E shows an end view of an alternate support member of an embodiment of the customizable cushion system.
FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the customizable cushion system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Reference is made herein to the attached drawings. Like reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to depict like or similar elements of the customizable cushion system. The figures are intended for representative purposes only and should not be considered to be limiting in any respect.
Referring now to FIGS. 1A and 1B, there is shown a perspective view of an embodiment of the customizable cushion system and a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the customizable cushion system, respectively. The customizable cushion system 11 comprises a flexible outer casing 12 having a closed rear end 13, a pair of closed lateral edges 14, and an open front end 15 disposed opposite the closed rear end 13, defining an interior volume therebetween. In the illustrated embodiment, the flexible outer casing 12 comprises a substantially rectangular cross-section, however, other shapes and styles of cushions, including circular, polygonal, or the like are contemplated. A plurality of support members 17 are selectively insertable into the interior volume via the open front end 15, wherein the plurality of support members 17 comprise a substantially cylindrical structure as further described elsewhere herein. In the illustrated embodiments, the plurality of support members 17 comprise a solid cylindrical construction, however, as elsewhere described herein, tubular structures having a longitudinal channel therethrough are also contemplated. Upon securement within the interior volume, the plurality of support members 17 extend parallel to each other between the open front end 15 and the closed rear end 13. In this manner, the plurality of support members 17 extend transversely across a length of the customizable cushion system 11 to provide increased comfort and airflow between the flexible outer casing 12 and the user. The flexible outer casing 12 is contemplated to comprise a soft and comfortable casing for pillows, seat cushions, or the like, as desired by the user to maximize comfort, durability, and cleaning efficiency. In some embodiments, the flexible outer casing 12 comprises a cotton or felt material, however other commonly known cushion casing materials are also contemplated. In other embodiments, the flexible outer casing 12 comprises an elastic material biased inwardly towards the interior volume to constrict about one or more support members of the plurality of support members 17 disposed therein. In this manner, the plurality of support members 17 are retained in a desired space within the interior volume, while also ensuring that the flexible outer casing 12 contours to the outer dimensions of the plurality of support members 17 to facilitate airflow between the user and the customizable cushion system 11. A closure fastener 18 is affixed to the open front end 15, wherein the closure fastener 18 is configured to securely close the front end 15 to retain the plurality of support members 17 within the interior volume. In the illustrated embodiments, the closure fastener 18 comprises a zipper mechanism, however, in alternate embodiments, the closure fastener 18 is contemplated to comprise complementary hook and loop fasteners, snaps, buttons, straps, ties, or another securement means convenient to the user.
In the shown embodiment of FIG. 1B, the flexible outer casing 12 is subdivided into two or more distinct compartments, each independently capable of receipt of a plurality of support members 17 in a parallel alignment relative to each other. In the shown embodiment, the plurality of support members 17 extend perpendicularly between the pair of closed lateral edges 14, however, the plurality of support members 17 may also be dimensioned to secured in a parallel alignment between the open front end 15 and the closed rear end 13 as shown in the embodiment of FIG. 1A. In the shown embodiment, a seam 27 extends perpendicularly between the closed rear end 13 and the open front end 15 to divide the interior volume into a first compartment 28 and a second compartment 29. The first compartment 28 is hingedly affixed to the second compartment 29 about the seam 27, such that the customizable cushion system 11 can fold about existing seats or other support surfaces. In this manner, the first compartment 28 can operate as a seating cushion, while the second compartment 29 operates as a back support cushion. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, an additional seam 31 parallel to the seam 27 defines a third compartment 32 hingedly affixed to the second compartment 29 about the additional seam 31 similar to the relationship between the first and second compartments 28, 29. In this manner, the third compartment 31 can fold about a headrest or other additional articulation point of an existing seating device. The placement of the seam 28 and the additional seam 31 can be adjusted to create compartments of a desired height or width, such that the first, second, and third compartments 28, 29, and 32 are dimensioned to be within a close tolerance to the length of the plurality of support members 17. In this manner, the plurality of support members 17 are constrained within each compartment to ensure that the plurality of support members 17 remain in parallel alignment. The seam 28 and the additional seam 31 terminate adjacent to the open front end 15 such that the open front end 15 serves as the opening for each of the first, second, and third compartments 28, 29, and 32. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first, second, and third compartments 28, 29, and 32 comprise an independent opening each having a closure fastener 18 extending along the open front end 15, however, a singular opening having a single closure fastener 18 extending across an entire length of the flexible outer casing 12 is also contemplated. Further seams are contemplated to subdivide the flexible outer casing 12 into additional compartments in excess of the illustrated three as deemed necessary for a desired application. Additionally, in other embodiments, supplementary seams may be disposed parallel to the plurality of support members 17, wherein the supplementary seams are configured to retain the plurality of support members 17 in a desired alignment relative to the orientation of the flexible outer casing 12.
In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1B, a plurality of securement straps 30 are affixed on each of the pair of closed lateral edges 14, wherein the plurality of securement straps 30 are contemplated to removably secure the customizable cushion system 11 to a desired support surface, such as an existing chair, car seat, or the like. In such embodiments, at least two securement straps are affixed on each of the pair of closed lateral edges 14, wherein the plurality of securement straps 30 are configured to wrap around the support surface, such as about chair legs, back rests, or other features, whereupon the plurality of securement straps 30 removably secure together to retain the customizable cushion system 11 on the support surface. In some embodiments, the plurality of securement straps 30 removably secure together via tying complementary securement straps together, whereas, in alternate embodiments, fasteners are disposed on each securement strap, such as complementary hook and loop fasteners, male and female buckle fasteners, or other securement means.
Referring now to FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, and 2E, there are shown end views of various embodiments of support members of an embodiment of the customizable cushion system. In the illustrated embodiments, various forms of support members of the plurality of support members 17 are shown. As each of the illustrated embodiments provides distinct benefits or functionality, it is contemplated that each support member can be used in combination with any other embodiment of support members, such that the user can configure the customizable cushion system to their preferences. Similarly, the illustrated embodiments highlight particular variations of individual elements, however, it should be noted that each illustrated element may be utilized in combination with each remaining element. For example, while FIG. 2B illustrates a cross-shaped longitudinal channel 19 in combination with a cylindrical support member 17, a cross-shaped longitudinal channel 19 may be utilized in combination with support members 17 having cross-sections as shown in FIGS. 2D and 2E. Alternatively, the solid core structure illustrated in FIG. 2C may comprise a cross-shape or be utilized in combination with alternate form factors of support members 17 as shown in FIGS. 2D and 2E.
In some embodiments, the plurality of support members 17 include a longitudinal channel 19 extending therethrough, wherein the longitudinal channel 19 allows the plurality of support members 17 to compress inwardly upon the introduction of outward pressure. In this manner, the longitudinal channel 19 can be dimensioned to calibrate the flexibility, compressibility, and overall stiffness to suit a desired user's preferences. The longitudinal channel 19 is further contemplated to be various shapes or sizes to further adjust the compressibility of the plurality of support members 17 as a whole. For example, the longitudinal channel 19 comprises a circular cross section (as shown in FIG. 2A), a cross shape (as shown in FIG. 2B), or another shape, such as a square, star, or other polygon to further customize the plurality of support members 17.
In some embodiments, the plurality of support members 17 comprise a compressible material, such as foam, wherein the plurality of support members 17 deform upon external pressure to provide a cushioning effect. In other embodiments, the plurality of support members 17 comprise a thermally conductive material configured to draw heat away from a user in contact with the plurality of support members 17. In such embodiments, a portion of the plurality of support members 17 is contemplated to comprise a length greater than that of the user's body part in contact with the customizable cushion system, such that the plurality of support members 17 can then conduct heat away from the user and into the surrounding area. For example, in use as a pillow, the plurality of support members 17 are contemplated to extend substantially perpendicular to the user's head in contact with the pillow, such that opposing ends of the plurality of support members 17 are not in contact with the user's body to facilitate heat regulation. In this manner, the user can be passively cooled while in contact with the customizable cushion system, increasing user comfort. Alternatively, in the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 2C, the plurality of support members 17 comprise a multi-material construction having an outer portion 21 disposed about a central core 20, wherein each of the central core 20 and the outer portion 21 comprise distinct materials. In some embodiments, the central core 20 comprises a material having a greater stiffness than that of the outer portion 21, such that the central core 20 is comparatively rigid, while the outer portion 21 provides compressibility and cushioning to the structure of the plurality of support members 17. In this manner, the durability and rigidity of the plurality of support members 17 is increased, while still providing cushioning capability. In some such embodiments, the outer portion 21 comprises the thermally conductive material as previously described.
In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 2D, the plurality of support members 17 comprise a plurality of planar faces 23 about an exterior thereof, defining a polygonal cross-section. The plurality of planar faces 23 provide a substantially flat surface upon which a user can rest. In the shown embodiment, the plurality of support members 17 comprise a hexagonal structure, however, alternate polygonal structures having greater or fewer planar faces 23 are contemplated. Furthermore, the polygonal structure defines the shape and size of the gap between adjacent support members of the plurality of support members 17 when secured within the flexible outer casing, such that airflow between the user and the plurality of support members 17 is increased as further described elsewhere herein. Alternatively, in the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 2E, the plurality of support members 17 comprise a plurality of arcuate protrusions 24 disposed about a circumference of the plurality of support members 17. The plurality of arcuate protrusions 24 are disposed equiangularly about the plurality of support members 17. The plurality of arcuate protrusions 24 reduce the surface area in contact with the user to further increase comfort and airflow between the user and the cushion system.
Referring now to FIG. 3, there is shown a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the customizable cushion system. In the shown embodiment, the plurality of support members 17 are disposed within the interior volume 16 of the flexible outer casing 12. The combination, number, and style of the plurality of support members 17 can be adjusted to suit user preferences. Furthermore, the plurality of support members 17 may be placed within the interior volume 16 in groupings of like design to define zones of a particular compressibility to provide increased support in some areas of the customizable cushion system 11. In the shown embodiment, two layers of support members 17 are disposed within the interior volume 16, however, it should be noted that the number of layers of support members 17 are defined by the size of the interior volume 16 and the user's preferred cushion height. In the shown embodiment, a plurality of recesses 26 are defined within the flexible outer casing 12 between adjacent support members of the plurality of support members 17. The plurality of recesses 26 are configured to provide a pathway for airflow between the user and the customizable cushion system 11, such that the user's temperature can be regulated to maximize the user's comfort. In some embodiments, the plurality of recesses 26 are further facilitated by elasticity of the flexible outer casing 12.
In one use, a plurality of support members 17 are inserted into the interior volume 16, wherein the selected support members are configured to provide a user with a preferred level of support. Once inserted and arranged in a desired number of layers to define a cushion height, the user can actuate the closure fastener 18 to retain the plurality of support members 17 within the customizable cushion system 11. The flexible outer casing 12 can then be tucked into the gaps defined between adjacent support members to define the plurality of recesses 26 to ensure adequate airflow between the user and the cushion is achieved. In multi-compartment embodiments as shown in FIG. 1B, this process is then repeated for each compartment. The customizable cushion system 11 can then be placed on a desired support surface, such as a bed, chair, car seat, or the like. In some embodiments, securement straps can then be tied or otherwise secured to the support surface to removably secure the customizable cushion system 11 thereto. In this manner, the user is provided with a customizable and adjustable cushion system capable of providing variable stiffness and increased airflow between the user and the cushion.
It is therefore submitted that the instant invention has been shown and described in various embodiments. It is recognized, however, that departures may be made within the scope of the invention and that obvious modifications will occur to a person skilled in the art. With respect to the above description then, it is to be realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly, and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention.
Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention.
Patent Application
20220395117
